Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness, a beloved entry from the GameCube era, is officially making its way to Nintendo Switch Online.
During the highly anticipated February 2026 Pokémon Presents, Nintendo confirmed that the cult-favorite RPG will launch on the service in March for Nintendo Switch 2 owners.
This confirms earlier reports of its return, but marks the first time a specific release window has been communicated directly to fans. Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness was originally developed by Genius Sonority and launched for the Nintendo GameCube in 2005.
Praised for its darker narrative and innovative Shadow Pokémon mechanics, the game has long been a requested title among series enthusiasts.
Until now, the game has remained inaccessible on modern hardware, making this announcement particularly notable for collectors and new players alike. Alongside the news, Nintendo showcased an official trailer during the Pokémon Presents broadcast, giving fans a nostalgic look at Gale of Darkness’ signature gameplay and updated interface.
The trailer serves as a reminder of the game’s unique battle system, which distinguished it from mainline Pokémon titles at the time. "We're excited to bring Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness to a new generation on Nintendo Switch Online," stated a Nintendo spokesperson in official language during the presentation.
"This release honors the legacy of the GameCube classics and provides longtime fans with a chance to relive an unforgettable adventure." Additionally, Nintendo reiterated that Pokémon Colosseum, another fan-favorite from the GameCube library, is also planned for release on Nintendo Switch Online.
However, the company did not provide a date or timeline for when Pokémon Colosseum will become available on the platform. The Nintendo Switch Online service has been steadily expanding its catalog with retro hits and classic RPGs, bolstering its value to subscribers.
By bringing legacy Pokémon titles like Gale of Darkness and potentially Pokémon Colosseum to the Nintendo Switch 2 eShop, Nintendo further strengthens its commitment to video game preservation and accessibility. For ongoing updates and announcements from the February 2026 Pokémon Presents, fans are encouraged to monitor Nintendo’s official channels and reputable gaming news platforms.
During the highly anticipated February 2026 Pokémon Presents, Nintendo confirmed that the cult-favorite RPG will launch on the service in March for Nintendo Switch 2 owners.
This confirms earlier reports of its return, but marks the first time a specific release window has been communicated directly to fans. Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness was originally developed by Genius Sonority and launched for the Nintendo GameCube in 2005.
Praised for its darker narrative and innovative Shadow Pokémon mechanics, the game has long been a requested title among series enthusiasts.
Until now, the game has remained inaccessible on modern hardware, making this announcement particularly notable for collectors and new players alike. Alongside the news, Nintendo showcased an official trailer during the Pokémon Presents broadcast, giving fans a nostalgic look at Gale of Darkness’ signature gameplay and updated interface.
The trailer serves as a reminder of the game’s unique battle system, which distinguished it from mainline Pokémon titles at the time. "We're excited to bring Pokémon XD: Gale of Darkness to a new generation on Nintendo Switch Online," stated a Nintendo spokesperson in official language during the presentation.
"This release honors the legacy of the GameCube classics and provides longtime fans with a chance to relive an unforgettable adventure." Additionally, Nintendo reiterated that Pokémon Colosseum, another fan-favorite from the GameCube library, is also planned for release on Nintendo Switch Online.
However, the company did not provide a date or timeline for when Pokémon Colosseum will become available on the platform. The Nintendo Switch Online service has been steadily expanding its catalog with retro hits and classic RPGs, bolstering its value to subscribers.
By bringing legacy Pokémon titles like Gale of Darkness and potentially Pokémon Colosseum to the Nintendo Switch 2 eShop, Nintendo further strengthens its commitment to video game preservation and accessibility. For ongoing updates and announcements from the February 2026 Pokémon Presents, fans are encouraged to monitor Nintendo’s official channels and reputable gaming news platforms.
